Yale Hereditary Kidney Cancer and Genetic Assessment Program

Introduction

The Yale Kidney Cancer and Genetic Assessment Program launched in 2013 to evaluate and manage individuals who may have kidney cancer perhaps caused by heredity or acquired genetic alterations. This program was specifically designed to assist the unmet needs of those patients with less common forms or unusual presentations of kidney cancer as well as to assist their community physicians who may be less familiar with genetic testing and the specifics of clinical management. This comprehensive program is designed to evaluate and treat the following types of patients:

Patients with early onset kidney tumors (presenting at age 45 or less)

Patients with bilateral or multifocal kidney tumors

Patients with significant family history [one (1) relative or two (2) relatives] with kidney tumors

Personal or family history of other cancers including tumors of the pancreas, uterus, thyroid, breast, brain/spine, adrenal gland, and melanoma

Associated dermatologic skin conditions with or without a family history of kidney cancer such as fibrofolliculomas, leiomyomas, angiofibromas, etc.

Clinical Program

The program includes a team of experts within the Smilow Cancer Hospital focused on managing cancer patients, including clinicians with a specific interest in treating hereditary cancer syndromes. As part of this program, we have experienced genetic counselors, a clinical geneticist familiar with next generation testing, a molecular diagnostic team, and a partnership with the Yale Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program.

Besides performing genetic testing for known kidney cancer genes using in-house CLIA certified genetic labs, our team also is interested in novel gene discovery. By using next generating sequencing techniques, we expect to find new causes that contribute to familial cancer predisposition, some which will result in therapeutic implications.

Program Highlights

The Yale Cancer Center is one of 45 National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers. Additionally, our team’s expertise in the management of complex forms of kidney cancer has recently led to a special designation by the VHL Family Alliance as one of eight Comprehensive Clinical Care Centers for hereditary kidney cancer. This designation highlights our commitment and ability to manage highly complex kidney cancer conditions.

Contact Us

If you are interested in being evaluated by Yale’s Hereditary Kidney Cancer and Genetic Assessment Program, please call one of the following numbers:

For patients with a recent kidney cancer diagnosis (less than one year) or who need further kidney cancer treatment: (203) 785-2815

For patients who would like more information on the Smilow Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program: (203) 200-4362

Smilow Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program

To learn more about the Smilow Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program, please click here.

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